McCaskill calls high-speed rail funding a boon

WASHINGTON (KMOX)  -- U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill is reacting to the White House announcement Wednesday night regarding high-speed rail.

McCaskill says, "Missouri would be receiving $31 million to improve rail service between Kansas City and St. Louis.  The rail line connecting St. Louis to Chicago will be receiving funding for improvements as well."

In her statement, the Democratic senator calls the stimulus spending a boon for the local and regional economy saying it will create jobs and move goods, services and people across the Midwest.

She adds, "This stimulus money further shows that Missouri projects can compete for and earn federal funding without relying on the earmark process.”